Jackson Academy’s first headmaster, Loyal Bearss, firmly believed that the key to unlocking a student’s greatest potential was the ability to read—that if a person could read well, they could learn anything. In 1959, this phonics pioneer and 10 forward-thinking families took a chance, founding a school based on teaching reading through phonics when sight-reading was the conventional method. Jackson Academy embraced phonics, and its students soon began reading well beyond all expectations.
Throughout the 2024-2025 school year, JA will celebrate 65 years as a member of the Jackson metropolitan community. Visitors to campus will soon see a panoramic view of milestones on display near the Middle School Plaza. A community service project for the neighborhood’s fire station is underway to support the firefighters who protect the community. Other service activities are planned throughout the year.
During Homecoming this week, alumni will gather for reunions and tours. Students are celebrating with a variety of dress-up days this week and with a Homecoming pep rally, a parade on Sheffield Drive before the game, and the football matchup with Madison St. Joe on Friday evening. The presentation of the Homecoming court and queen will be at halftime.
